Parenthood often comes with an unspoken expectation: you should be able to handle it all. Feed the baby, keep the house together, respond to every need—without ever needing help yourself. But that’s not how it works in real life, and it’s certainly not how it’s meant to work.

As a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years in the NICU, I’ve seen the quiet weight so many new parents carry—whether they gave birth, adopted, or welcomed their baby through surrogacy. Even those surrounded by people who love them can feel utterly alone. And when postpartum depression sets in, asking for help can feel almost impossible.

The Myth of “Doing It All”

Our culture celebrates self-reliance, but in reality, that mindset can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Asking for help isn’t admitting failure—it’s taking responsibility for your health and your baby’s well-being.

Why Asking for Help Feels So Hard

• Fear of being judged
• Pressure to appear “strong”
• Not wanting to burden others
• Guilt for not enjoying every moment

How Help Can Look

Help isn’t always a full-time nanny or live-in family. It can be:

• A friend bringing a meal
• Your partner handling one night feeding
• A neighbor watching the baby while you shower
• A postpartum doula checking in weekly

The Ripple Effect of Receiving Support

When you let others in, you’re not only caring for yourself—you’re showing your child what healthy community looks like.

You were never meant to do this alone. The most resilient parents aren’t the ones who never need help—they’re the ones who know when to ask for it.

If you’re feeling the weight of postpartum depression, you deserve more than to “push through.” I offer compassionate counseling to help you navigate this season with support, tools, and hope. Let’s talk.